Annual NABS Roundtable

In October, the Northern Australia Biosecurity Strategy (NABS) welcomed 77 stakeholders from across northern Australia and beyond to the 3rd annual Northern Australia Biosecurity Strategy (NABS) Roundtable in Cairns.

This important event brought together government, industry, Indigenous representatives, and community members to share, learn, and collaborate on biosecurity issues critical to the north. The Roundtable was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the diverse and innovative initiatives being implemented under the NABS framework.

Attendees heard from an inspiring lineup of speakers, including Troy Garling, who spoke about Indigenous engagement (see Engaging with Indigenous Communities for Biosecurity) and busted some myths; Anne Leadbeater, who brought practical and valuable insights on recovery and resilience; Yakub Sebastian, who showcased the data projects being undertaken by Masters students at Charles Darwin University; and an engaging industry panel featuring Allison Dakin, Gavin Mackay, and Shaun Jackson, who shared their on-the-ground experiences and perspectives on biosecurity challenges and opportunities.

The energy throughout the week was incredibly positive and uplifting. It was fantastic to see so many people connecting, building relationships, and strengthening networks that will support biosecurity outcomes across the north well into the future.

“Thank you and I am very impressed with the significant amount of work being delivered under NABS, I can’t keep up! Congratulations to the entire NABS team for the huge effort put in to roll out these diverse deliverables across such a large geographical footprint.”  – John McDonald, Greenlife Industry

“It was really refreshing to see the enthusiasm of participants and the innovative approaches being used by NABS to promote and deliver biosecurity in the North. I certainly came away with some ideas.” Shane Hetherington, Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development